A worried councillor claims crumbling flats and boarded-up buildings are “scaring” shoppers away from a once-bustling town centre.

A worried councillor claims crumbling flats and boarded-up buildings are “scaring” shoppers away from a once-bustling town centre.

SNP man Andy Doig believes shopkeepers in Johnstone are losing out as families avoid businesses due to the unsightly appearance of some streets.

He has singled out MacDowall Street and Millbrae as two areas which are in need of urgent regeneration.

And, at a meeting of Renfrewshire Council that takes place today, he will demand steps are taken to improve these streets.

Councillor Doig, who represents Johnstone North, Kilbarchan and Lochwinnoch, told the Paisley Daily Express: “Since my election, town centre traders and residents have complained to me about these roads.

“I want to see a powerhouse Johnstone, with a vibrant town centre that will attract new shoppers, bring new residents in and create new jobs in retail.

“To do this, I am urging the council to talk to Renfrewshire Chamber of Commerce about creating a trust to regenerate the area.

“These streets are the first thing visitors see when they enter the town and we want to look at all regeneration options available to create a brighter and better Johnstone.”

Marco Piacentini, who has run Bruno’s chip shop in Johnstone’s High Street for a decade, has welcomed Mr Doig’s call for action.

He said: “The council needs to have a look at cleaning up the streets, improving access for drivers and repairing some of the rundown buildings in the town centre.

“It would make the place so much nicer for people who would be willing to pop in and out of the shops here.

“The gap site at the end of MacDowall Street could definitely do with some fixing up.

“The council needs to do more to entice people back into the town centre.”

Mr Doig and fellow Johnstone councillor Stephen McGee are keen to see funds put aside for repairs in MacDowall Street and Millbrae.

“Andy and I are determined to work as a team to promote Johnstone,” said Councillor McGee. “One of the main reasons we are demanding more from the council is because the Millbrae area is a main artery into Johnstone from the A737.

“First impressions are important and we want to drive forward a positive vision for the town.

“Paisley already has a development trust and, recently, Renfrew established one too, so it’s only fair that Johnstone has one to co-ordinate our regeneration agenda.”